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–+ servings
Greek Manestra

Cozy Greek Manestra: The Ultimate Comfort in a Bowl

Greek Manestra is a nostalgic, one-pot meal featuring tender orzo and savory beef or lamb, perfect for weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Greek
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pot
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Use vegetable oil as an alternative.
  • 1 pound Beef (or Lamb) Ground beef is a quicker substitute.
  • 1 cup Onion (chopped) Shallots can be used for a milder flavor.
  • 3 cloves Garlic (minced) Garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Tomato sauce can be a substitute, reduce slightly.
  • 28 ounces Crushed Tomatoes Fresh tomatoes can be used for a lighter taste.
  • 2 cups Broth/Water Vegetable broth is ideal for vegetarian versions.
  • 1 leaf Bay Leaf Omit for a simpler taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Cinnamon Nutmeg can be an alternative.
  • Salt and Pepper Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.
  • 1 cup Orzo Substitute with small pasta shapes if desired.
  • 1 bunch Fresh Parsley Other herbs like basil can be used.

Equipment

  • Large pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Greek Manestra
  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat until it shimmers, about 2-3 minutes.
  2. Add 1 pound of beef or lamb to the pot, searing until browned on all sides, approximately 5-7 minutes.
  3. Stir in 1 chopped onion and 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent.
  4. Introduce 2 tablespoons of tomato paste to the pot, stirring well and cooking for an additional minute.
  5. Add one 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes and a splash of broth or water, mixing until combined.
  6. Season with 1 bay leaf, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, salt, and pepper to taste, and let simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes.
  7. Add 1 cup of orzo, keeping the pot uncovered, and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently.
  8. Remove the pot from heat and let it rest for a few minutes to thicken slightly.
  9. Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top before serving, and enjoy warm with crusty bread or Greek salad.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For a vegetarian option, skip the meat and use vegetable broth, adding extra vegetables for flavor. This dish reheats beautifully; add a splash of broth to keep the orzo moist.

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